BEIJING — China emerged as the world’s third-largest source of foreign direct investment (FDI) outflows in 2024, with its outward FDI stock surpassing $3 trillion, accounting for 7.2% of the global total. The ranking, confirmed by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), places China behind the United States and Japan in global FDI contributions.
At a press briefing on Tuesday, Ling Ji, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM), highlighted the strategic direction of China’s investment flows. Of the total outflows, $51 billion—over a quarter—were directed toward Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) partner countries, marking a 23% increase from 2023.
The figures underscore China’s expanding economic footprint and its commitment to international development partnerships, particularly through the BRI framework. Analysts note that China’s FDI strategy reflects a blend of commercial ambition and geopolitical outreach, with investments spanning infrastructure, energy, and manufacturing sectors.
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Source: Caixin Global; UNCTAD Report on Global Investment Trends.
